Value Team Autonomy over Rescuing

Value Team Autonomy over Rescuing

Leaders should facilitate and enable team decision-making rather than intervening to solve the problem themselves, if there even is a problem, because often the team doesn’t experience one themselves. Taking over decisions, even with good intentions, creates a cycle...
Value Team Autonomy over Rescuing

Be Explicit About Decision-Making Authority

Clearly communicate the decision-making process being used for any given choice. If a leader has already made a decision, they should state it directly rather than creating a false pretense of seeking input. This respects people's time and avoids breeding...
Value Team Autonomy over Rescuing

Respect Apathy in Decision-Making

Recognise that not all team members want to be involved in every architectural decision, and this is acceptable. Forcing participation can be counterproductive; their silence may indicate a lower psychological safety or a preference to focus elsewhere. The goal is to...
Value Team Autonomy over Rescuing

Ask What Does It Take To Go Along with a Decision

After a decision is taken, immediately ask the group: “What do you need to go along with this?” This shifts the focus from debate to constructive action and identifies necessary support. A decision’s success depends on the team’s ability to execute it. Example After...
Value Team Autonomy over Rescuing

Address Dissent by Enabling Commitment

After a decision is made, allow dissenting members to express their concerns freely without becoming defensive. Then, shift the conversation by asking, “What do you need to go along with this decision?” This validates their perspective while focusing on a constructive...